Physics Colloquium

Abstract: In 1994, four decades of research in optical pumping and spin exchange polarization of noble gases serendipitously proved to enable high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging of lung function. As a young Princeton graduate student I had the unique opportunity to take part in the first imaging experiments. Subsequently I was fortunate to play a role in efforts to translate this basic physics discovery into a clinically useful and accepted modality. In my talk, I will tell the story of the non-linear journey that this technology has taken towards commercialization and clinical acceptance. I will first review the basic physics of polarized noble gas production and outline the workings of MRI. I will then show some of the recent clinical investigations enabled by hyperpolarized noble gas MRI. The story is not yet final, but exciting progress has been made, and many lessons have been learned. I hope to update those who are asking “what ever happened to hyperpolarized noble gas MRI?” and perhaps to share my experiences of the commercial world with members of the department who are considering embarking on their own entrepreneurial ventures.